PBS Documentary Explores Julie Andrews and Blake Edwards’ Love Story: How to Watch

Even more than a dozen years after his death, Blake Edwards remains an influential Hollywood icon, revered for directing movies like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “Days of Wine and Roses,” and the “Pink Panther” comedies.

Born in Tulsa and raised primarily in Los Angeles, Edwards, who died in 2010 at age 88, was married for more than 40 years to stage and screen legend Julie Andrews. The couple collaborated on seven films, including the gender-bending movie musical “Victor/Victoria,” the bawdy comedy “10,” and the scathing Tinseltown takedown “S.O.B.”

The four-decade romance between Edwards and Andrews is at the heart of the new documentary “Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames,” premiering nationwide at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27 on PBS as part of the long-running series “American Masters.”

The new film about the Oscar-honored writer, director, and producer features interviews with Andrews; other actors who worked with Edwards, including Lesley Ann Warren (“Victor/Victoria”), Bo Derek (“10″), and Robert Wagner (“The Pink Panther”); comedian Patton Oswalt; movie critic Leonard Maltin; Edwards’ children, Jennifer and Geoffrey Edwards; and well-known filmmakers Rob Marshall (“Chicago”), Rian Johnson (the “Knives Out” movies), Paul Feig (“Bridesmaids”), and Jay Chandrasekhar (“Super Troopers”).

Ahead of the documentary’s debut on PBS (OETA in Oklahoma City), Danny Gold, the film’s producer, co-writer, and director, and Michael Kantor, executive producer for “American Masters,” spoke about Edwards’ origins, his Hollywood love story with Andrews, his continued cinematic influence, and more.

When asked what made him want to create a documentary about Blake Edwards, Gold shared a personal anecdote. As a 12-year-old, he saw ‘Return of the Pink Panther’ at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, which ignited his interest in Edwards’ work. This experience led him to explore Edwards’ career and become a lifelong admirer.

Blake Edwards’ Oklahoma background played a significant role in his life and creative process. Born in 1922, Edwards moved to Los Angeles after his parents divorced. Despite the move, Oklahoma’s influence lingered, particularly evident in his semi-autobiographical Western “Wild Rovers.”

Julie Andrews and director Danny Gold pose for a photo after their interview for the new PBS documentary “Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames” in Brentwood, California.

The relationship between Edwards and Andrews was profound, both professionally and personally, lasting 43 years. Andrews spoke highly of Edwards, revealing that their partnership deeply influenced their respective careers. This connection is palpable in their collaborative works.

Condensing Edwards’ extensive career into a 90-minute documentary proved challenging, as he directed 53 films. Gold aimed to thematically connect his movies to highlight Edwards’ techniques, influences, and broader impact on other filmmakers like Rian Johnson, Paul Feig, and Rob Marshall.

Incorporating animation into the documentary was a creative decision inspired by Edwards’ penchant for memorable opening title sequences, particularly in “The Pink Panther.” Animation also helped illustrate parts of the story where no visual materials were available, adding a dynamic element to the film.

Danny and his team had rare access to archival materials, including bits from a 1971 film titled ‘Julie,’ which Edwards made about his life with Andrews. This access, combined with support from Edwards’ estate and Andrews herself, enriched the documentary with exclusive content.

Even more than a decade after his death, Edwards’ influence remains strong. Projects like a potential new ‘Pink Panther’ film and the success of the ‘Days of Wine and Roses’ Broadway show highlight his enduring legacy. Modern filmmakers, including those who participated in the documentary, continue to cite Edwards as an inspiration.

The documentary aims to offer viewers a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood, showcasing the love story and professional collaboration between Edwards and Andrews. It provides insights into the creative process behind iconic works like the ‘Peter Gunn’ theme and ‘Moon River’ from ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s.’

Ultimately, the film serves to rediscover and honor Blake Edwards, ensuring his place among the great filmmakers of our time.

Source: The Oklahoman, USA TODAY Network